Can tiny houses make a big change?

March 28, 2018

Across Australia, 44,000 young people don’t have a safe place to sleep at night, and it’s not just a big city problem. Last year we supported to 116 young people in the Wimmera region of western Victoria, 102 of whom were at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness.

Inspired by the global Tiny House Movement, we have launched a new project intended to house the increasing number of 14 to 17-year-olds at risk of homelessness in the region.

To get things started, a $30,000 Commbank Community Grant has helped fund a pilot to purchase some shipping containers and fit them out as liveable dwellings.
Phase two and three of the The Tiny House project involves expanding the number of dwellings, building a tiny house garden community and implementing further youth support services.
We’re not just building homes – we want to encourage community connection and build
a vibrant, safe environment for young people to develop their social and life skills and get back on their feet.

“Young people will be involved in the design process so that it really feels like home for them. The project will also offer a number of support services to help young people achieve stability, as well as build on their strengths and independent living skills.”
— Wendy Sturgess, Uniting Wimmera Executive Officer

This is a complex project which requires permits, building materials, labour, landscaping and the employment of a dedicated youth worker. Further financial support is needed in order that the full potential of the project can come to life.